Providence is the capital and largest city in Rhode Island. As of the 2000 census, it has a population of 173,618, but a July 1, 2004 Census estimate put the city's population at 178,126. “ Providence is located in the center of and is the second largest city in New England. Providence is nicknamed the ‘Beehive of Industry’, while the downtown area is nicknamed ‘Downcity’ (TheFreeDictionary.com).
Providence was named by Roger Williams in honor of "God's merciful Providence" after he was expelled from the puritans from Massachusetts and found this spot to settle in. The state was established for religious freedom. The official name of the state includes the name of the city, Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. The city was one of the first cities to industrialize in the United States and was noted for its jewelry and silverware industry. Today, Providence is the economic, cultural, and political hub of Rhode Island (The FreeDictionary.com).
The school I am going to analyze during this report is Nathanael Greene Middle School. This report will include information about the community, the district of Providence, and the school is intended for the public audience. This report will provide information gathered together to generally show a parent who is interested in sending their child to this middle school what they can expect. This report will provide information on the community background, a summary of the district of Providence, and an analysis of Nathanael Greene middle school based on scores received from the salt surveys and information gathered through various sources.
With a brief introduction the report will be based mainly on Nathanael Greene Middle School which is located on 721 Chalkstone Ave in Providence, Rhode Island. Nathanael Greene middle school was built in 1929. The athletic field is located across the street from the school; Nathanael Greene seems more like a suburban middle school than an urban one, though it is in the city. This is because the location seems to be more on the outskirts of Providence and not directly in the city. Nathanael Greene was built as a state of the art facility, but the building at the current moment needs some improvement. Located in the school's website, Nathanael Greene’s mission statement is to create a safe learning environment within our school community by word and deed; we actively practice mutual respect for every member of our school family. We strive to pursue high standards of learning, teaching, and conduct in order to be both focused and serious about improving the lives of people in our community. Through standards- based instruction, teachers will equip students with the necessary skills to become life-long learners and responsible community members. By openly communicating with the community constituents (parents, local agencies, colleges), our goal is to continually strive for educational and human excellence. Nathanael Greene teachers strongly encourage all students to participate in after school activities, as witnessed when visiting the school (Nathanael Greene Middle School Homepage, 2006).
Community Background
As of the census of 2000, there were 173,618 people, 62,389 households, and 35,873 families residing in the city. The racial makeup of the city of Providence was 54.53% Caucasian, 14.54% African American, 1.14% Native American, 6.01% Asian, 0.16% Pacific Islander, 17.55% from other races, and 6.08% from two or more races. 30.03% of the population was Hispanic or Latino of any race. Providence is one of the most culturally diverse cities for its size (Us Census Bureau, 2006). Families that grow up in the area of Providence are more culturally aware and develop the respect and understanding for the different cultures compared to the rural sections of the state.
Statistics show that the economy in this area is generally poor, because many families in the district of providence are living below the poverty line. The median income for a household in the city was $26,867, and the median income for a family was $32,058. Males had a median income of $28,894 versus $23,472 for females. 29.1% of the population and 23.9% of families are below the poverty line. Out of the total population, 40.1% of those under the age of 18 and 19.0% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line (2006 Census, U.S. Census Bureau)
There are 65.3% of family households in Providence Rhode Island. 44.3% of students live with both parents, 5.3% live with just a male householder, 15.7% live with just a female householder, and 21.0% live with other family members. Families’ living below the poverty level is 13.3% compared to the state level of 10.1%. Individuals’ living below the poverty level is 16.3% compared to the state level of 13.1%. The fact that 55.7% is a relatively high when thinking of students within providence that live without both parents. This can bring about the question if this affect the students in some way.
An indication to how well the students will do in school, a percentage of 78.9% people in Providence was a high school graduate or higher and 24.9% received a bachelors degree or higher. The 2004-2005 school district-wide total expenditure per pupil was $ 11,214.00, Nathanael Greene’s expenditure per pupil was $11,051.00 and the state’s total expenditure per pupil was $9, 371.00. Many public schools in Providence, Rhode Island are funded by taxes and depend heavily on them. Nathanael school spending was lower then the school district-wide total expenditure by $ 163.00, but higher then the state's total expenditure per pupil by $1680.00
District Summary
The Providence Public School District serves about 26,000 students from pre-Kindergarten to grade twelve. The district has twenty-five elementary schools, nine middle schools, and thirteen high schools. There are also two centers for students with special needs (Providence’s District Report Card).
At Nathanael Greene middle school, there are 65 total numbers of teachers and staff, and 866 students from grade six to eighth. 127 students are in special education services and there are no English language learners SURPRISING. . The principal is Nicole Mathis-Thomas. The states student: teacher ratio is 1:10 and Nathanael Green student: teacher ratio is 1:13, though in many classes there are about 25-30 students to every one teacher. Nathanael Greene middle school student population consists of 21% African American, 12% Asian, 41% Hispanic, 1% Native American and 25% White (Nathanael Green School Report Card 2006).
In perspective of those facts I would like to point out a few accomplishments Nathanael Greene was able to achieve GOOD.: Nathanael Greene has over the years proved its academic success through national, state and local competitions. Nathanael Greene has been the Statewide Olympiad champion eight out of the past nine years. Also placing first in various math competitions, mock trials, history competitions, and have won the citywide spelling bee four years in a row. Nathanael Greene has not only established education within the school but provide an opportunity to showcase it’s talent nationally as well. (Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 2006)
School Analysis
The attendance at Nathanael Greene middle school is 92% compared to the states 94%. This is important because the success of a school and the students depends heavily on students actually going to school. The rate of suspension is 79% compared to the district of 136.4 % and the states 48.2%. The rate of suspensions is a dramatic from 2005 where the suspension rate was at 117.2% (Nathanael Greene report Card 2005/2006). This is a major concern within the school because the lack of control and disruption can heavily effect the education of students and become a disruption within Nathanael Greene's program. At Nathanael Greene middle school 65% of the students are eligible for free or reduced price lunch, while 35% of students are not eligible. Students’ receiving special education services goes as follows: 83% are non-recipients, 8% are receiving resources, and 9% are self –contained. Surprisingly there is no students’ receiving ESL / bilingual education services at Nathanael Green. (Nathanael Greene School report Card).INDEED.
As compared to the state percentages, the students at Nathanael Greene middle school are performing intermediate. Greene has a lower percent of proficiency in some areas of English Language Arts than the state. In basic reading the students achieved 45 percent, while the state average was 49 percent. They also scored 34 percent in analysis and interpretation in writing and 45 percent achieved the standard in the state.
A percentage of 275 students (32%) are enrolled in a program provided within Nathanael Greene middle school to receive advanced academic courses within “the gifted program”. All middle school students in providence are eligible to be part of this program by taking and passing an admissions test. If students are not granted into the program they can still be enrolled in a general education program and special education program. These are the three distinct programs held in this middle school.
Although the mathematics scores were average in skills, scoring 50 percent under the 51 percent average scored by the state in 2006-2007, this was a 3 percent increase compared to 47 percent that Nathanael Greene had in 2005-2006.(Information Works, 2007) The concepts and problem solving scores were just above the state average. The school is classified as “making insufficient progress”. There are many factors that attribute to the improvement of the school and the students. One reason for this improvement is the school environment. When student’s needs are met and they feel safe they are able to perform better in academic areas. Even though the school averages is slightly below the state averages, forty percent of the students feel as though they have a sense of belonging in the school and only 15 percent of the students feel as though they have trouble getting along with other students. Parent involvement is also a key factor to the success of the school. Seventy-seven percent of the parents feel that the school views them as important partners; also 25 percent of parents are involved in school committees such as curriculum, budget, and school involvement. (Information Works, 2007)
Conclusion
Looking at all the overall data Nathanael Greene middle school is classified as “making insufficient progress” and still has improving to do. Development is required in many areas and the school should be working hard to develop the areas needing improvement.(Information Works, 2007) They have a wonderful staff of teachers who enjoy their job and look forward to working each day but then there are some teachers that require improvement. If they are doing something that is not working they need to get together as a staff and have others offer ideas as to what they think would work. Similarly students feel welcomed and have high academic expectations within the gifted program; but as for the students in general education and special education they require more attention to academic studies
The involvement and positive attitudes of all three groups -teacher, students and parents attribute- to the success of the school. Without one of these the school would fail. Nathanael Greene understands this and should work harder to incorporate the input of all three groups.
After looking at the data one comes to find that Nathanael Greene is coming close to or exceeding some of the state averages in certain areas. They should be working hard to improve all areas, not just those needing improvement. This will show the schools commitment to their students as well as their staff, and their commitment to their mission statement and guiding beliefs. Greene has the commitment and necessities to in time become a better performing school. They need to take the information from they receive from the Salt survey and work had to improve the areas in which they are unsuccessful, where the math and English scores are nearly meeting the state standards. Some areas that seem to be a major concern is the suspensions rates that occurring. Improving in maintaining a balance of power and order within the school is a step to Nathanael Greens success in the future.
Title: Nathanael Greene Middle School
Introduction
Providence is the capital and largest city in Rhode Island. As of the 2000 census, it has a population of 173,618, but a July 1, 2004 Census estimate put the city's population at 178,126. “ Providence is located in the center of and is the second largest city in New England. Providence is nicknamed the ‘Beehive of Industry’, while the downtown area is nicknamed ‘Downcity’ (TheFreeDictionary.com).
Providence was named by Roger Williams in honor of "God's merciful Providence" after he was expelled from the puritans from Massachusetts and found this spot to settle in. The state was established for religious freedom. The official name of the state includes the name of the city, Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. The city was one of the first cities to industrialize in the United States and was noted for its jewelry and silverware industry. Today, Providence is the economic, cultural, and political hub of Rhode Island (The FreeDictionary.com).
The school I am going to analyze during this report is Nathanael Greene Middle School. This report will include information about the community, the district of Providence, and the school is intended for the public audience. This report will provide information gathered together to generally show a parent who is interested in sending their child to this middle school what they can expect. This report will provide information on the community background, a summary of the district of Providence, and an analysis of Nathanael Greene middle school based on scores received from the salt surveys and information gathered through various sources.
With a brief introduction the report will be based mainly on Nathanael Greene Middle School which is located on 721 Chalkstone Ave in Providence, Rhode Island. Nathanael Greene middle school was built in 1929. The athletic field is located across the street from the school; Nathanael Greene seems more like a suburban middle school than an urban one, though it is in the city. This is because the location seems to be more on the outskirts of Providence and not directly in the city. Nathanael Greene was built as a state of the art facility, but the building at the current moment needs some improvement. Located in the school's website, Nathanael Greene’s mission statement is to create a safe learning environment within our school community by word and deed; we actively practice mutual respect for every member of our school family. We strive to pursue high standards of learning, teaching, and conduct in order to be both focused and serious about improving the lives of people in our community. Through standards- based instruction, teachers will equip students with the necessary skills to become life-long learners and responsible community members. By openly communicating with the community constituents (parents, local agencies, colleges), our goal is to continually strive for educational and human excellence. Nathanael Greene teachers strongly encourage all students to participate in after school activities, as witnessed when visiting the school (Nathanael Greene Middle School Homepage, 2006).
Community Background
As of the census of 2000, there were 173,618 people, 62,389 households, and 35,873 families residing in the city. The racial makeup of the city of Providence was 54.53% Caucasian, 14.54% African American, 1.14% Native American, 6.01% Asian, 0.16% Pacific Islander, 17.55% from other races, and 6.08% from two or more races. 30.03% of the population was Hispanic or Latino of any race. Providence is one of the most culturally diverse cities for its size (Us Census Bureau, 2006). Families that grow up in the area of Providence are more culturally aware and develop the respect and understanding for the different cultures compared to the rural sections of the state.
Statistics show that the economy in this area is generally poor, because many families in the district of providence are living below the poverty line. The median income for a household in the city was $26,867, and the median income for a family was $32,058. Males had a median income of $28,894 versus $23,472 for females. 29.1% of the population and 23.9% of families are below the poverty line. Out of the total population, 40.1% of those under the age of 18 and 19.0% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line (2006 Census, U.S. Census Bureau)
There are 65.3% of family households in Providence Rhode Island. 44.3% of students live with both parents, 5.3% live with just a male householder, 15.7% live with just a female householder, and 21.0% live with other family members. Families’ living below the poverty level is 13.3% compared to the state level of 10.1%. Individuals’ living below the poverty level is 16.3% compared to the state level of 13.1%. The fact that 55.7% is a relatively high when thinking of students within providence that live without both parents. This can bring about the question if this affect the students in some way.
An indication to how well the students will do in school, a percentage of 78.9% people in Providence was a high school graduate or higher and 24.9% received a bachelors degree or higher. The 2004-2005 school district-wide total expenditure per pupil was $ 11,214.00, Nathanael Greene’s expenditure per pupil was $11,051.00 and the state’s total expenditure per pupil was $9, 371.00. Many public schools in Providence, Rhode Island are funded by taxes and depend heavily on them. Nathanael school spending was lower then the school district-wide total expenditure by $ 163.00, but higher then the state's total expenditure per pupil by $1680.00
District Summary
The Providence Public School District serves about 26,000 students from pre-Kindergarten to grade twelve. The district has twenty-five elementary schools, nine middle schools, and thirteen high schools. There are also two centers for students with special needs (Providence’s District Report Card).
At Nathanael Greene middle school, there are 65 total numbers of teachers and staff, and 866 students from grade six to eighth. 127 students are in special education services and there are no English language learners SURPRISING. . The principal is Nicole Mathis-Thomas. The states student: teacher ratio is 1:10 and Nathanael Green student: teacher ratio is 1:13, though in many classes there are about 25-30 students to every one teacher. Nathanael Greene middle school student population consists of 21% African American, 12% Asian, 41% Hispanic, 1% Native American and 25% White (Nathanael Green School Report Card 2006).
In perspective of those facts I would like to point out a few accomplishments Nathanael Greene was able to achieve GOOD.: Nathanael Greene has over the years proved its academic success through national, state and local competitions. Nathanael Greene has been the Statewide Olympiad champion eight out of the past nine years. Also placing first in various math competitions, mock trials, history competitions, and have won the citywide spelling bee four years in a row. Nathanael Greene has not only established education within the school but provide an opportunity to showcase it’s talent nationally as well. (Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 2006)
School Analysis
The attendance at Nathanael Greene middle school is 92% compared to the states 94%. This is important because the success of a school and the students depends heavily on students actually going to school. The rate of suspension is 79% compared to the district of 136.4 % and the states 48.2%. The rate of suspensions is a dramatic from 2005 where the suspension rate was at 117.2% (Nathanael Greene report Card 2005/2006). This is a major concern within the school because the lack of control and disruption can heavily effect the education of students and become a disruption within Nathanael Greene's program. At Nathanael Greene middle school 65% of the students are eligible for free or reduced price lunch, while 35% of students are not eligible. Students’ receiving special education services goes as follows: 83% are non-recipients, 8% are receiving resources, and 9% are self –contained. Surprisingly there is no students’ receiving ESL / bilingual education services at Nathanael Green. (Nathanael Greene School report Card).INDEED.
As compared to the state percentages, the students at Nathanael Greene middle school are performing intermediate. Greene has a lower percent of proficiency in some areas of English Language Arts than the state. In basic reading the students achieved 45 percent, while the state average was 49 percent. They also scored 34 percent in analysis and interpretation in writing and 45 percent achieved the standard in the state.
A percentage of 275 students (32%) are enrolled in a program provided within Nathanael Greene middle school to receive advanced academic courses within “the gifted program”. All middle school students in providence are eligible to be part of this program by taking and passing an admissions test. If students are not granted into the program they can still be enrolled in a general education program and special education program. These are the three distinct programs held in this middle school.
Although the mathematics scores were average in skills, scoring 50 percent under the 51 percent average scored by the state in 2006-2007, this was a 3 percent increase compared to 47 percent that Nathanael Greene had in 2005-2006.(Information Works, 2007) The concepts and problem solving scores were just above the state average. The school is classified as “making insufficient progress”. There are many factors that attribute to the improvement of the school and the students. One reason for this improvement is the school environment. When student’s needs are met and they feel safe they are able to perform better in academic areas. Even though the school averages is slightly below the state averages, forty percent of the students feel as though they have a sense of belonging in the school and only 15 percent of the students feel as though they have trouble getting along with other students. Parent involvement is also a key factor to the success of the school. Seventy-seven percent of the parents feel that the school views them as important partners; also 25 percent of parents are involved in school committees such as curriculum, budget, and school involvement. (Information Works, 2007)
Conclusion
Looking at all the overall data Nathanael Greene middle school is classified as “making insufficient progress” and still has improving to do. Development is required in many areas and the school should be working hard to develop the areas needing improvement.(Information Works, 2007) They have a wonderful staff of teachers who enjoy their job and look forward to working each day but then there are some teachers that require improvement. If they are doing something that is not working they need to get together as a staff and have others offer ideas as to what they think would work. Similarly students feel welcomed and have high academic expectations within the gifted program; but as for the students in general education and special education they require more attention to academic studies
The involvement and positive attitudes of all three groups -teacher, students and parents attribute- to the success of the school. Without one of these the school would fail. Nathanael Greene understands this and should work harder to incorporate the input of all three groups.
After looking at the data one comes to find that Nathanael Greene is coming close to or exceeding some of the state averages in certain areas. They should be working hard to improve all areas, not just those needing improvement. This will show the schools commitment to their students as well as their staff, and their commitment to their mission statement and guiding beliefs. Greene has the commitment and necessities to in time become a better performing school. They need to take the information from they receive from the Salt survey and work had to improve the areas in which they are unsuccessful, where the math and English scores are nearly meeting the state standards. Some areas that seem to be a major concern is the suspensions rates that occurring. Improving in maintaining a balance of power and order within the school is a step to Nathanael Greens success in the future.
References
The Free Dictionary www.TheFreeDictionary.com
Census. 2006 U.S Census Bureau March 2007 http://www.census.gov
Information Works. 2004.March 2007 http://www.infoworks.ride.uri.edu
Kidscount. 2006. March 2007 http://www.rikidscount.org
Salt Survey. 2004. March 2007. http://schnet.ncpe.uri.edu/
Providence Public Schools. 2006.March 2007 http://www.providenceschools.org/index.html
Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 2006 http://www.eride.ri.gov/dataDump/00/2006-07/SaltRpts/200304_28_Nathanael_Greene_Middle.pdf
Pheng Heng
EDC 102
Instructor: Jay Fogleman
Peer Edit 1 Pheng by Stefanie
Peer Edit 1 Pheng by Stefanie
CR EVAL - PHENG H